HOLIDAY HIDEAWAYS ALONG THE OVERBERG
When the hussle of the big city gets too much, there are many places that are less than two hours from Cape Town. Take a drive over the mountain pass, away from traffic and crowds and experience the scenery of a lovely drive and a quiet destination.
Hermanus is popular among tourists and it is not the average quiet seaside village as many businesses and industries resemble city living, but the beaches and small guesthouses offer privacy and ocean views that will drown the noise of the town. There are also lovely places on either side of Hermanus and the best part about getting there is the drive itself.
When leaving Cape Town on the N2highway and climbing up Sir Lowry’s Pass, it is like going into another world of farms, quaint towns and tree-lined roads. Stopping at Grabouw’s farm stall is always a good experience and it is the first indicator that a holiday or road trip is about to begin. The smell of the fresh bread and the crisp fresh fruit is enough to relax the most stressful person. There are lovely walks and mountain bike trails in this area and the farms of Elgin are an adventure to explore. There are apple factories to visit and farm stalls en route to please a hungry traveler. Camping along the Overberg coast is very popular and the towns of Kleinmond, Hangklip, Hermanus and Betty’s Bay are always busy over the festive season when families celebrate Christmas at the sea. Waking up to the roar of the ocean and ending each day with a beer and braai is the best way to end a busy year for South Africans. In Kleinmond, the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve has more than 1600 species of fynbos and a large indigenous forest to explore. The drive from Cape Town along the R44 is known as the Whale Route and it is a scenic drive that winds along the coast. Whale watching and fishing is very popular.
Onrus has a popular caravan park and many people have invested in holiday property near the ocean. There are houses to rent for week or two to get away from the world or bed and breakfast establishments will spoil the visitors. Aside from the coffee shops with homemade cakes and delicacies, there are small museums and other tourist attractions. Each town has something different to offer and exploration is enjoyable when driving through.
If camping and self catering is too primitive, then a few nights at the Arabella Golf Course will pamper the weary traveler. Bordering the largest natural lagoon in South Africa, the views are amazing and the luxury is unrivalled. There is a great restaurant, trendy bar and beauty salon to suit every need.
On the way past Hermanus, there are many little shops and places of interest and there is more to see on the other side of this town that is known for the Whale Festival. Driving along the Overberg is eventful and there is much to amuse the entire family.
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